groundcover

Chinese Sedum

Sedum tetractinum

The Story

Plant Bio

A low-growing, mat-forming succulent perennial. Features fleshy, rounded, green leaves arranged in whorls of four, which may take on bronze tones in fall. Bears clusters of star-shaped yellow flowers in summer.

Excellent as a groundcover, in rock gardens, or spilling over container edges. Its foliage resembles fish scales.

Uses & Benefits:

Provides striking white flowers and succulent foliage, perfect for sunny borders and rock gardens.

Requires minimal watering and maintenance, ideal for xeriscaping.

Supports pollinators like bees and butterflies during blooming season.

Essentials

At a Glance

Plant Type

Groundcover

Height

4 inches

Width

12 inches

Light

Full Sun, Partial Sun

Zones

4, 5, 6, 7, 8

Water

Low

Humidity

Average

Lifespan

Perennial

Native To

China

Toxicity

Non-toxic to humans and pets

Bloom period

Mid-summer – Late fall

In flower about 5 months of the year

Planting

How to Grow

Tuck seeds into well-draining soil in spring
Water lightly until established, about 2 weeks
Place in full sun for best color and growth
Avoid overwatering to prevent root rot
Fertilize lightly with cactus or succulent fertilizer in spring
Divide every 2-3 years to control spreading

Pro Tip

Ensure excellent drainage to prevent root rot and promote healthy growth.

Keep It Thriving

Care Guide

Do

Water sparingly, especially in winter ❄️
Provide full sun for optimal flowering
Use well-draining soil to avoid waterlogging
Divide in early spring for vigorous growth

Don't

Don't overwater in winter ❌
Avoid fertilizing with high nitrogen fertilizers
Don't place in deep shade
Never let soil stay soggy

Seasonal Care Calendar

Task	Jan	Feb	Mar	Apr	May	Jun	Jul	Aug	Sep	Oct	Nov	Dec
Divide
Propagate
Spring Cleanup

Watch Out For

Pests & Diseases

Common Pests

Common Diseases

In the Garden

Landscape Uses & Companions

Landscape Uses

Silver‑foliaged borderDrought-tolerant rock gardenSunny windowsill

Companion Plants

Sedum 'Autumn Joy'SempervivumLavender Echinacea Agave

Multiply

Propagation Methods

Good to Know

Common Questions

Chinese Sedum questions

What zones can Chinese Sedum grow in?

Chinese Sedum is hardy in USDA Zones 4–8. Inside that range it survives winter in the ground; outside it, grow it as an annual or a container plant you protect.

Is Chinese Sedum deer resistant?

Yes — Chinese Sedum is rated deer-resistant. Deer typically pass it over, though extreme hunger can override any plant's defenses.

When does Chinese Sedum bloom?

Chinese Sedum typically blooms in mid-summer through late fall. Exact timing shifts a week or two with your zone — Sow's bloom calendar maps it to your garden.

Does Chinese Sedum need full sun?

Chinese Sedum does best in full sun to part shade. In hot climates, afternoon shade keeps blooms fresher longer.

Is Chinese Sedum drought tolerant?

Yes — once established (usually after the first full season), Chinese Sedum handles dry spells with minimal watering. Water deeply its first year to build the root system that makes that possible.